Shillong: A second Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at resolving the contentious Assam-Meghalaya border dispute is expected to be signed before August 15, according to Meghalaya Democratic Alliance (MDA) spokesperson and cabinet minister Paul Lyngdoh.
This anticipated agreement follows the landmark 2022 pact, which resolved disputes in six out of the 12 identified areas of contention along the interstate boundary.
Lyngdoh shared that the new agreement is set to bring five villages in the disputed block of Ri-Bhoi district under Meghalaya’s jurisdiction.
“This marks a significant step forward, achieved through sustained engagement and negotiation with the Assam government,” he stated.
The announcement comes amid recent tensions in the West Jaintia Hills district, where villagers from Lapangap reportedly razed tree plantations initiated by Assam’s Karbi Anglong Autonomous District Council, allegedly violating a status quo order.
To prevent further escalation, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong confirmed the deployment of police personnel to the area.
Lyngdoh also highlighted progress in other disputed sectors, including the Langpih area, where a resolution is nearing completion pending a joint inspection by border committees.
“We are awaiting confirmation from our Assam counterparts, led by Mr. Patowari, to finalise the inspection,” he said.
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Similarly, discussions regarding the Jaintia Hills sector are reportedly moving toward a conclusion.
Reaffirming the MDA government’s commitment, Lyngdoh emphasized, “This administration is steadfast in safeguarding Meghalaya’s territorial interests and ensuring our boundaries are respected.”
The Assam-Meghalaya border dispute has been a decades-long issue involving 12 areas of contention.
The ongoing negotiations are seen as critical to fostering long-term peace and cooperation between the neighbouring states.
